Beer pairing for Super Bowl parties

January 30, 2009 12:57:23 PM PST

Efrain Madrigal from Sam's Wines and Spirits in Chicago has made his picks of some unique craft beers to pair with some of the most popular Super Bowl munchies.Chips & Guacamole- Surprisingly enough, more guacamole is consumed on Super Bowl than Cinco de Mayo! Pale Ale is the perfect beer to pair with guacamole. The rich, hoppy flavors of the El Chupalualo Pale Ale ($4.49 per 22oz bottle) are the perfect accent to the jalapeño and cilantro in guac.

Chili- A smooth dark beer is the best option to pair with a hearty bowl of Chili. The sweet malt flavors of New Belgium Fat Tire Amber Ale ($2.99 per 22oz bottle) make it the ideal partner for a bold, spicy Chili.

Buffalo Wings- A staple among many football fans, these hot, tangy wings need a beer to cool the palate. A crisp, lighter beer like the Hoppin Frog Wild Frog Wheat Ale ($6.99 per 22oz bottle) is easy to drink but packed with flavor to enhance the tangy punch of the wings.

Pizza- Pizza is the perfect Super Bowl delight to feed the masses of hungry fans that you will be entertaining in your home. Ommegang's Hennepin ($5.99 per 750ml bottle) is a Belgian-style ale that matches up well with any kind of pizza, no matter how you slice it.

Sausages- This finger friendly food is always served at sporting events especially here in Chicago. Whether it's Brats, Hot Dogs or Italian Sausages, stouts like Bear Republic's Black Stout ($4.99 per 22oz bottle) are a great partner. This bold beer is easy to drink and has a delicious chocolaty finish.

About Sam's Wines and Spirits: Founded in 1946, Sam's Wines and Spirits has grown to be the nation's leading independent wine and spirits retailer. The company's success is due to its focus on customer service, selection, price, and knowledgeable staff. The company has been honored by both Wine Enthusiast and Wine Spectator magazines as Retailer of the Year and has also earned Forbes' Best of the Web award. Sam's Wines and Spirits has four Chicago-area locations in Lincoln Park, Downers Grove, Highland Park, and the South Loop. Sam's Wines and Spirits, Wine Director, Efrain Madrigal, has exceptional knowledge of wine and spirits and is bilingual in both Spanish and English. To learn more about what Sam's Wines and Spirits has to offer visit SamsWine.com